Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 8.2.30
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesChoose Conditions That Strengthen Devotional Life
“Thereafter, because of being pulled into the water and fighting for many long years, the elephant became diminished in his mental, physical and sensual strength. The crocodile, on the contrary, being an animal of the water, increased in enthusiasm, physical strength and sensual power.”
What the purport teaches
- The elephant was fighting in a foreign place and could not get food, so his body, mind and senses weakened. The crocodile was at home in the water and grew stronger.
- In fighting māyā, we should choose conditions that preserve strength and enthusiasm. A suitable condition of life is not the same for everyone.
- One need not artificially take sannyāsa; one may remain in a suitable āśrama. The essential thing is to take shelter of Kṛṣṇa’s lotus feet and continue the fight against māyā.
Try this today
Make one small adjustment to your food, rest or daily schedule today that supports steady devotional service.
Ask yourself
What change in my daily conditions would help me continue devotional service with greater strength?
Carry the question through the day, then answer it in your own words before sleep.
The study points, practice and question are short summaries drawn from Śrīla Prabhupāda's translation and purport. Read the full purport to go deeper.